The long-time critical darlings emerged from a series of other bands with their self-titled debut in 1995, and continued with more acclaimed albums like Call the Doctor (1996) and Dig Me Out (1997). The next few albums have pushed the band towards mainstream listeners, culminating in 2002's One Beat. The band, however, has remained fiercely faithful to their indie rock and feminist roots.
The band was founded by Corin Tucker and Carrie Brownstein. Currently, Janet Weiss (of Quasi) is the band's drummer.
Sleater-Kinney has no bass player. Both Carrie and Corin play guitar.